How to avoid spring break dehydration
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Hydration will be especially important for spring breakers and festival-goers this year, as common spring vacation destinations, like Florida, are experiencing more unusually hot days.
Why it matters: Dehydration contributes to heat exhaustion, which can be deadly.
What they're saying: "Between festivals, beach time and other outdoor activities, you're constantly sweating — even if you don't realize it," says Carissa Galloway, a registered dietitian with BodyArmor and personal trainer based in Orlando.
Zoom in: Galloway gave Axios tips on how to stay hydrated during the warmer weeks ahead.
Axios: What's the most common myth about staying hydrated?
- Galloway: "One common myth is that you need more sodium to stay hydrated. Sodium is commonly used as a main electrolyte source in sports drinks to increase hydration, but most Americans already consume too much sodium through their daily diets."
- "Potassium can be utilized as a healthier electrolyte option to boost hydration. Potassium reduces water retention by promoting the excretion of excess sodium and fluids in our body."
Axios: What are the signs that a person isn't adequately hydrated?
- Galloway: Key signs of dehydration can include headaches, dizziness, cramping, mental strain or exhaustion.
Axios: What products, besides water, are better for providing hydration?
- Galloway: "Electrolyte powders make it easy due to their ability to provide portable rapid rehydration."
- "Many festival venues do not allow outside liquids on-premises, so electrolyte powders are a great way to boost hydration without breaking any rules."
Yes, but: Regularly drinking electrolyte supplements can be a waste of money. Doctors recommend foods that are high in water, like fruit, vegetables or yogurt.
The bottom line: Listen to your body, stay hydrated and have fun.
